As more unsettling information surfaces in the Bibb County child sexual abuse case, some locals are reexamining troubling signs they previously noted.

A former teacher from the area, who chose to remain anonymous, believes they saw red flags. According to an interview, law enforcement had raised alarms about certain students nearly a year prior to the discovery of the abuse. It’s now understood that one of the victims is among ten children who were rescued from an underground bunker, where they reportedly faced sexual abuse and were given medication.

“She was in my class and lagged behind in development. There could be numerous reasons for that, but given what’s come to light, it’s likely related,” the teacher shared with the station.

The teacher mentioned noticing concerning patterns among students throughout 2023 and 2024. Beyond her developmental delays, there were notable hygiene problems and an ongoing lack of anxiety in these children. This wasn’t just typical outdoor play or messiness.

“It’s more than that; you just know,” she stated, pointing to clear signs of neglect.

Despite her attempts to alert school administrators multiple times during the year, she felt no substantial action was taken.

“It happened several times, and no, things never really improved,” she lamented.

Reflecting on the current situation, she expressed deeper disappointment now that the truth has emerged.

“I’m not exactly shocked, but it’s disheartening that nothing was done back then,” she said.

According to law enforcement, the case was referred to authorities by the Personnel Bureau only in February 2025.

When approached for comments, the Alabama Department of Personnel declined, referencing state confidentiality laws.

Currently, seven adults are in custody facing serious charges including rape, human trafficking, and related offenses, stemming from what investigators suggest is long-term abuse affecting at least ten children.